Military Appreciation Month: Spotlight on an Airman Week 2

Editor’s note: May is Military Appreciation Month, and we’ll highlight a different Airman and his or her job once per week for this month. We’re truly grateful for the hard work each Airman puts forth each day, and every job — big or small– contributes to the U.S. Air Force being the best Air Force in the world. Is there a military member you appreciate? Tell us in the comments below.

What’s your daily mission?Each day, I check over each F-16 pilot’s records to ensure they are fully trained and qualified before “stepping” them to fly. From there, I function as a liaison for the pilots to several shops on base, including maintenance, base ops, tower, command post and other agencies as required, relaying the most up-to-date information and coordination as the mission requires. At the end of the day, we track the pilots’ training and flying hours to update our systems.

What do you enjoy about your job?My favorite part is being able to talk to the pilots on a daily basis and being so close to the actual mission of the 35th Fighter Wing — the Suppression of Enemy Air Defenses. The knowledge I gain enables me to see the broad operational picture as well as key insights into other career fields and how we all contribute to the mission.

Why did you choose to serve in the military?Initially, it was about the unique career and travel opportunities the Air Force offers that you simply do not see in the civilian world. I was also drawn by the sense of duty and contributing to a purpose greater other than myself, combined with the ability to be able to reach my education goals while developing myself in the military. All the pieces just made sense to join. There is really no better opportunity.

What is your favorite thing about being in Japan?Japanese culture itself — from the cuisine to entertainment, to their professionalism and courtesy. I will certainly miss Japan!

Who is your favorite mentor and what did you learn from him/her?Senior Master Sgt. McCracken. He was the chief host aviation resource manager at Davis-Monthan Air Force Base, Arizona, during my time there and exemplified all the traits of a great leader. I strive to be a positive influence like he was to me and to carry those traits forward.

Supervisor’s remarks:Andersen sets the example for all to follow and is always ready to take any challenges head on. He took the initiative to seamlessly integrate non-deployed 13th Fighter Squadron personnel into 14th Fighter Squadron operations, easing the transition for all supporting agencies to have a central point of contact. As staff sergeant-select, he has shown that he is more than ready to wear the stripe and take on the duties he will be charged with. I could not ask for a more hard-charging Airman to work with and rely on.” – Tech. Sgt. Brandon Piper, 14th Fighter Squadron noncommissioned officer in charge of Aviation Resource Management